Iran won’t play in World Cup, minister says

Iran’s Sports Minister Declares Opposition to World Cup Participation

The Iranian sports minister has asserted that the nation will not compete in the upcoming World Cup, regardless of circumstances. This declaration comes amid ongoing tensions following recent strikes by US and Israeli forces against Iran, which have prompted retaliatory actions by Tehran targeting American interests in the Middle East.

FIFA’s chief executive, Gianni Infantino, previously met with US President Donald Trump to address the progress of World Cup preparations. During the discussion, Infantino received assurances that Iran would be invited to participate in the tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

“Considering that this corrupt regime has assassinated our leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup,” stated the minister, Ahmad Donyamali, in a televised address.

Iran’s football federation head, Mehdi Taj, echoed the sentiment, questioning, “Which rational person would send the national team into such a situation?” The men’s team is set to face New Zealand in the US in June before playing against Belgium and Egypt.

Trump, who was awarded FIFA’s first peace prize last year, initially expressed indifference about Iran’s involvement. However, in a recent Instagram post, Infantino noted that Trump reiterated his support, emphasizing, “The Iranian team is, of course, welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States.”

Meanwhile, six members of Iran’s women’s football squad were granted humanitarian visas to stay in Australia after refusing to sing the national anthem during a match. The team was in Australia for the Asian Cup, though one player has since returned to Iran.

A travel ban imposed by Trump restricts Iranian fans from attending the tournament in the US this summer. Nevertheless, exceptions are expected for the teams to take part. FIFA’s chief operating officer, Heimo Schirgi, confirmed that the World Cup will proceed as planned, stating, “The World Cup is too big to be postponed, and we hope everyone who has qualified can join.”

Follow the latest developments on the Iran conflict and its impact on global sports events. Read more from Sky News: March banned to ‘prevent serious public disorder’ and British couple drown at popular Australian beach.

Google users can access additional coverage from their preferred sources in search results—click here to prioritize Sky News.